Faq Master Plant

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Master Plant Diet Retreat?

  The Master Plant Diet Retreat is a traditional Amazonian healing practice where guests work with a specific master plant under the guidance of Shaman Demetrio and Sergio. It involves consuming a plant preparation, following a restrictive dieta (diet), and participating in ceremonies, plant baths, and integration circles to support physical, emotional, and spiritual cleansing in a small group setting near the Tamshiyacu Tahuayo National Reserve.

• How should guests prepare for the retreat?

  Guests prepare by completing a health questionnaire and a consultation with Demetrio or Sergio to assess readiness. They must disclose all medications and follow a pre-dieta plan for at least two weeks, avoiding alcohol, recreational drugs, processed foods, and red meat. Certain medications, like SSRIs or MAOIs, require tapering off under medical supervision (4–8 weeks for SSRIs like fluoxetine). A medical clearance form is required if on such medications. Guests are also encouraged to set clear intentions and practice mindfulness before arriving.

• What are the dietary restrictions during the retreat?

  The dieta requires guests to avoid salt, sugar, spices, oil, alcohol, caffeine, dairy, red meat, and processed foods. Meals, served three times daily, include plant-based foods like manioc, quinoa, and vegetables, sourced locally to support detoxification. Guests maintain these restrictions throughout the 8-day or 12-day retreat to align with the plant’s healing energy.

• Is the Master Plant Diet safe?

  Safety is ensured through rigorous protocols. A certified nurse monitors vitals during the 12-day retreat, with basic medical facilities on-site and access to a hospital in Iquitos (5-hour boat journey) for emergencies. Pre-retreat health screenings and medication reviews prevent adverse interactions. Ceremonies occur in a secure maloca with trained facilitators, emergency kits, and controlled plant dosing. Facilitators are trained in first aid and crisis intervention to support guests’ physical and emotional well-being.

• Can guests participate if they are on medications?

  Guests must disclose all medications. Certain drugs, like SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), MAOIs, antipsychotics, or blood pressure medications, may interact with master plants and require tapering off under medical supervision (e.g., 4 weeks for fluoxetine, 2 weeks for sertraline). A medical clearance form is required. Other medications, like antihistamines, are reviewed case-by-case. The retreat provides a tapering guide and recommends consulting a healthcare provider.

• What should guests expect during plant ceremonies?

  Guests drink a master plant preparation in a candlelit maloca, guided by Demetrio’s icaros and supported by Sergio and facilitators. They may experience physical sensations (e.g., warmth, tingling), emotional releases, or spiritual insights, varying by individual and plant. Ceremonies last 1–2 hours, followed by rest and integration support. The experience is gentler than other plant medicines, focusing on subtle cleansing and connection.

• How are guests supported during the retreat?

  Guests receive guidance from Demetrio, Sergio, and Jerusalén facilitators at a 1:3 healer-to-guest ratio. Daily integration circles, one-on-one consultations, and grounding practices (e.g., meditation, movement) help process experiences. A certified nurse monitors health for the 12-day retreat, and facilitators provide emotional and cultural support, ensuring a safe, nurturing environment.

• What happens if guests feel overwhelmed?

  Facilitators are trained to support guests experiencing emotional or physical distress. During ceremonies, staff monitor closely and offer grounding techniques, such as breathing exercises or physical reassurance. One-on-one consultations with Demetrio or Sergio provide additional support. Post-ceremony integration circles and rest periods in tambos help guests process intense experiences in a safe space.

• What accommodations are provided?

  Guests stay in eco-friendly tambos (private jungle huts) with mosquito nets, basic bedding, and access to shared, clean bathrooms. The retreat includes a communal dining area for dieta-compliant meals and a maloca for ceremonies and circles. The setting near the Tamshiyacu Tahuayo National Reserve offers a serene, natural environment with river access.

• Can guests contact the retreat team after returning home?

  Yes, guests can reach the team via email or the online community platform for post-retreat support. Virtual sessions and therapist referrals provide ongoing guidance. The retreat team is committed to helping guests apply the plant’s lessons in daily life.

• What should guests bring to the retreat?

  Guests should bring lightweight, breathable clothing (long sleeves and pants for mosquito protection), a reusable water bottle, a journal, a flashlight, insect repellent, and personal toiletries. Medications must be disclosed in advance. Avoid bringing valuables or non-dieta foods. A packing list is provided upon booking.